Is Chevy Cruze a Good Car? Exclusive 9 Review
People often praise the Chevy Cruze for its mix of comfort, low cost, and tech. This makes us ask: is Chevy Cruze a good car?
With a 4.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, it shows to be above average for compact cars. It proves to be a dependable car.
In this fair review, we’ll look into the Cruze’s performance, features, how happy customers are, and how it stands against rivals.
The Cruze has two engines: a 1.4L turbo and a 1.8L, giving a good mix of power and great fuel economy.
For those who value fuel savings, the turbo engine offers about 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
It also comes with a roomy interior and a 7-inch touchscreen, making it a strong competitor in its category.
Even though some owners have mentioned problems with the transmission and engine, many still suggest the Chevy Cruze. They point out its strong build and great fuel efficiency.
As we go through this review, we will dig into its performance, safety scores, and feedback from other drivers. This will help you see if the Chevy Cruze fits what you need.
Overview of The Chevy Cruze
The Chevy Cruze is a compact sedan that has been around since 2010. It aims to take on famous models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
With options for both sedan and hatchback forms, it offers something for everyone. The Chevy Cruze stands out thanks to its comfy interior and fresh styling
Inside, it’s decked out with modern stuff that looks good and works well. This makes driving or riding in it a nice experience.
Plus, it’s good on gas, which is great for young folks and families who want a cool yet budget-friendly car.
The Chevy Cruze does a great job of mixing quality with a price that’s easy to handle. It has practical features and a stylish look.
This makes it a strong contender for anyone looking to buy a new car in this busy market.
Chevy Cruze Performance
Looking into the Chevy Cruze performance is key for buyers eyeing this compact vehicle.
It boasts various engine options across its models. These options aim to meet different needs for power and fuel economy.
Here, we share a summary of the engine choices and their performance metrics. Plus, we give you a taste of what it’s like to drive the Cruze.
Engine Options and Specifications
The Chevy Cruze offers several engine setups, with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine being most common.
This engine finds a sweet spot between strong performance and gas mileage. With horsepower ranging from 138 to 153, depending on the year and model, it’s perfect for everyday use.
Here are some key engine specifications:
| Model Year | Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 1.4L Turbo I4 | 153 | 177 | 6-speed automatic |
| 2017 | 1.4L Turbo I4 | 153 | 177 | 6-speed manual or automatic |
| 2018 | 1.6L Diesel I4 | 137 | 240 | 6-speed automatic |
Driving Experience and Handling
The Chevy Cruze offers a nice drive, thanks to great suspension and quick steering. It handles well, making it great for city drives and long trips.
The engines ensure smooth acceleration, while the design of the car makes your ride quiet and comfy.

Chevy Cruze Features
The Chevy Cruze shines with its stylish interior and lots of tech options. These features make driving better.
Everything from comfort to tech is thought of, making it modern yet practical. The inside feels great for any trip, thanks to good materials and space. Also, you’ll love the features on every drive.
Interior Comfort and Technology
In the Chevy Cruze, there’s a welcoming space that’s both cool and useful. You’ll find comfort with lots of room and comfy seats for everyone. Tech comes standard, like:
- User-friendly infotainment system with touchscreen functionality
- Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free communication
- Multiple USB ports for device charging
Choosing higher trims means more luxury, like leather seats. You also get better tech, such as advanced navigation and premium sound, for an awesome ride.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is big in the Chevy Cruze, with many features to keep you safe. You get:
- Multiple airbags throughout the car
- Stability control and traction control for better handling
- Rearview camera for easier backing up
Want more safety? Higher trims offer things like lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning, improving safety scores.
hese make the Chevy Cruze a top pick for those who care about safety.

Chevy Cruze Reliability
Understanding the long-term performance of your Chevy Cruze is key. Many owners have reported issues that affect its reliability.
Frequent problems like intake gumming and premature wear on certain engine parts are common, especially in turbo models.
Knowing about these issues can help you address them and keep your car reliable.
Common Issues and Repairs
The Chevy Cruze faces several reliability challenges you should know about. We will talk about some common issues and how to fix them:
- Intake Gumming: This problem lowers performance. Regular cleaning can help prevent it.
- Turbocharger Failures: Turbo models might have parts that wear out sooner. Replacing these parts can make your car last longer.
- Electrical System Glitches: Sometimes, the electrical system may act up. Fixing or replacing parts can solve these problems.
Warranty Coverage and Owner Feedback
Chevy provides a strong warranty that boosts confidence in the Cruze’s reliability. There’s a powertrain warranty good for five years or 100,000 miles.
Owners usually report being happy with Chevy’s customer service when it comes to warranty issues.
Most drivers find this coverage comforting as it helps address any problems with their vehicle.
Chevy Cruze Advantages
The Chevy Cruze stands out for its amazing fuel efficiency. It delivers 24 to 40 miles per gallon.
This varies with engine type and how you drive. Knowing this can save you money and make owning it better.
Fuel Efficiency and Economy
The Chevy Cruze is designed to save fuel. It uses light materials and has a shape that cuts through air easily. This design means less gas is used, saving you money at the gas station.
Spaciousness and Cargo Capacity
The Chevy Cruze is also spacious inside, with plenty of room for legs. It has a big trunk too. This makes it great for both everyday use and long trips.

Chevy Cruze Drawbacks
The Chevy Cruze is liked by many drivers but it has its problems. Knowing the downsides helps you choose wisely. Two main issues are its performance and how reliable it is.
Performance Limitations
Some drivers aren’t happy with the car’s acceleration, especially when it’s full. This can be annoying, like when getting onto highways or going up hills.
Think about these limits to see if the Cruze fits your needs.
Recalls and Reliability Concerns
The Chevy Cruze is mostly reliable but it has had recall issues. These problems make some owners worry about safety and how long it lasts.
If you’re thinking about buying a used one, knowing its recall history is key. It helps you understand more about the Cruze’s issues.

Chevy Cruze Comparison with Competitors
In the world of compact cars, the Chevy Cruze often goes up against tough rivals. A major competitor is the Honda Civic.
We look at things like fuel economy, engine power, and how comfortable they are inside. This helps you pick the car that meets your driving needs best.
How It Stacks Up Against Honda Civic
The Chevy Cruze comparison with the Honda Civic shows pros and cons for each. The Honda Civic leads in fuel efficiency, getting more miles per gallon than the Cruze.
But the Chevy Cruze is more spacious and comfortable inside, which is great for those who want a comfy ride.
| Feature | Chevy Cruze | Honda Civic |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 28 city / 38 highway | 32 city / 42 highway |
| Engine Power (hp) | 153 | 158 |
| Interior Space (cubic feet) | 97.8 | 88.5 |
Chevy Cruze vs. Ford Focus
The Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus have different traits that draw in various drivers. The Ford Focus is known for its sporty feel, which may appeal to those who like an active drive.
The Cruze focuses on a smoother, more comfortable ride instead of sportiness.
| Feature | Chevy Cruze | Ford Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $16,500 | $17,100 |
| Horsepower | 153 | 160 |
| Cargo Space (cubic feet) | 22.7 | 23.8 |
Consumer Ratings and Reviews
Knowing consumer ratings and reviews is key when looking at the Chevy Cruze. These details show what buyers like and look for.
They talk about the car’s performance, cost, and how reliable it is. With this info, you’ll see why many pick the Chevy Cruze.
Key Factors Influencing Customer Choices
Several things shape what consumers think about the Chevy Cruze. The top factors are:
- Performance: Owners like the car’s power and how it saves on gas. This leads to their happiness with the car.
- Price: Its good price helps more people afford it, leading to great reviews.
- Reliability: People often talk about how well the car works for a long time without many repairs.
Expert Opinions and Recommendations
Experts often give their thoughts on the Chevy Cruze, adding to what we know. They point out the car’s strong points like safety and easy-to-use tech.
They usually say the Cruze is a good choice for those who want comfort, tech, and performance. This matches what many consumers say, too.
Is Chevy Cruze A Good Car? Unbiased Review
Is the Chevy Cruze a good choice for a car? Let’s look at what it offers. It’s known for being dependable, saving on gas, and having lots of room inside.
That makes it comfy for both daily rides and long trips. It also comes with different engine choices to match what you like in terms of power and saving fuel.
But, it’s not perfect. Some folks mention it could be quicker and more fun to drive. There have also been some recalls and problems with certain years of the car.
These issues are worth thinking about. What do people who own it and experts say? They often talk about how it saves on gas and has the latest tech features.
Their views help us see why many are happy with their Cruze. Deciding if the Chevy Cruze is right for you depends on what’s important to you.
Consider how much you care about things like how it drives, if it’s comfortable, and if it’s reliable. Thinking over these points will help you choose wisely.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a lot about the Chevy Cruze, looking into its performance, features, reliability, and what drivers think.
It’s good on gas and has plenty of room for your stuff. This makes it a solid choice for those who care about saving at the pump and space.
But, consider its downsides too. It’s not the quickest car on the block, and there have been some recalls.
These points matter when deciding if the Cruze is right for you. Think about what you really need from a car. In the end, your choice to buy should be based on the details we’ve shared.
We’ve gone through the Cruze’s pros and cons. With this info, you can figure out if it fits what you’re looking for in a new car.
FAQs
Is the Chevy Cruze a good car for families?
Yes, it has plenty of room, safety stuff, and uses less gas. It’s a smart pick for families.
What engine options are available for the Chevy Cruze?
You can get a Chevy Cruze with a turbocharged engine that has 138 to 153 horsepower. Some models also have a diesel option.
How reliable is the Chevy Cruze?
It’s got okay reliability scores. But, the turbo models might need extra care. Keeping up with checks and fixes can help it last longer.
How does the fuel efficiency of the Chevy Cruze compare to its competitors?
It gets about 24 to 40 miles per gallon. These numbers are good when you look at similar small cars.
What are some drawbacks of the Chevy Cruze?
It can be slow to speed up if it’s full. And, some parts under the hood might give you trouble.
How does the Chevy Cruze compare to the Honda Civic?
Next to the Honda Civic, the Cruze holds its own. But it might be a bit slower and not as snappy in its performance.
What features are included in the Chevy Cruze interior?
It has a nice and comfy inside with good stuff like a touchscreen, Bluetooth, and fancy options on the pricier versions.
What do consumer reviews say about the Chevy Cruze?
People like how it doesn’t cost much, it’s cozy, and doesn’t drink much gas. But, compared to others, it might not drive as well.
